Plastic recycling has been a persistent environmental problem. However, things may be changing with the arrival of a novel discovery that promises to revolutionize the recycling industry: bacteria that can break down and consume plastic.
The Plastic Problem
Humans produce tons of plastic waste every day. This material, which was a revolution in its day due to its strength and durability, has become over time one of the main threats to our planet. Currently, it is estimated that there are about 100,000 tons of plastic waste in the oceans 8 million tons of plastic floating.
Plastic and its environmental consequences
One of the main problems with plastic is that it is not biodegradable, meaning it does not decompose through the action of microorganisms present in nature. Furthermore, given the volume that it represents, the incineration of this waste leads to the release of harmful gases and the generation of polluting ashes.
Attempts at Recycling Plastics:
Over the years, various techniques have been developed to try to counteract the problem. One of the best-known is conventional recycling. This process takes place in specialized plants where waste is sorted, cleaned, crushed into small pieces, and melted down to turn it into new products.
The problem with conventional recycling is that it requires a high consumption of energy and water. In addition, not all plastics can be recycled this way, and those that can, lose quality with each recycling process.
This is where bacteria come in:
Recently, a team of Japanese scientists discovered a species of bacteria capable of eating plastic. This organism, which has been named Ideonella sakaiensis, is capable of consuming two types of plastic present in many everyday consumer products.
Discovery Details:
More specifically, the bacteria in question break down plastic and transform it into carbon dioxide and water. What is even more fascinating is that these bacteria not only break down plastic but also feed on it. Everything indicates that evolution has led them to adapt to this material and incorporate it into their diet.
Applications of this finding:
This discovery has the potential to revolutionize waste management and recycling. If this decomposing power can be harnessed, it could be the solution to the accumulation of plastic waste. The key now is to develop a technology that can use this method effectively and on a large scale.
Frequently Asked Questions
How were these bacteria discovered?
These bacteria were found in a garbage dump in Japan, apparently this site was the perfect environment for their development due to the amount of plastic waste.
What types of plastics do they consume?
Bacteria are capable of consuming two types of plastic, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyethylene terephthalate (PTW), which are present in a large number of everyday products.
When will we see this technology applied to waste management?
For the moment, this is just a scientific discovery. Many years of research are still needed before it can be applied on a large scale. But it is undoubtedly a huge step forward for the world of recycling.
